Legal Resources & Guides
Expert guidance on UK drink driving law, sentencing, and the legal process. Based on official sources and professional experience.
Our Guides
Sentencing Guidelines Explained
A comprehensive guide to the Sentencing Council guidelines for drink driving offences, including how courts determine your category and sentence.
Read GuideHigh Risk Offender Explained
What it means to be classified as a High Risk Offender, the DVLA medical process, and how to prepare for the examination.
Read GuideDefences to Drink Driving
An overview of the available defences including procedural challenges, the hip flask defence, and breathalyser calibration issues.
Read GuideGetting Your Licence Back
Step-by-step guidance on the process for applying to get your driving licence back after a drink driving disqualification.
Read GuideDrink Drive Rehabilitation Course
Everything you need to know about the DDRS, including eligibility, cost, and how it can reduce your disqualification period.
Read GuideGuilty Plea Strategy
Understanding when to plead guilty, how the reduction works, and the strategic considerations involved in entering a plea.
Read GuideSentencing Categories Reference Table
Quick reference table showing all four sentencing categories with reading ranges, starting points, and disqualification periods.
| Category | Breath (µg) | Blood (mg) | Starting Point | Sentencing Range | Ban (1st) | Ban (2nd in 10yr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 120 - 150+ | 276 - 345+ | 12 weeks custody | High community order - 26 weeks custody | 29 - 36 months | 36 - 60 months |
| 2 | 90 - 119 | 207 - 275 | Medium level community order | Low community order - 6 weeks custody | 23 - 28 months | 36 - 52 months |
| 3 | 60 - 89 | 138 - 206 | Band C fine | Band C fine - Low community order | 17 - 22 months | 36 - 46 months |
| 4 | 36 - 59 | 81 - 137 | Band C fine | Band B fine - Band C fine | 12 - 16 months | 36 - 40 months |
Fine Bands
| Band | Starting Point | Range | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Band A | 50% of weekly income | 25-75% | Lowest level fine |
| Band B | 100% of weekly income | 75-125% | Medium level fine |
| Band C | 150% of weekly income | 125-175% | Highest level fine (most common for drink driving) |
Official Sources
Our calculator and guides are based on information from these authoritative sources. We recommend consulting these for the most up-to-date official guidelines.
Sentencing Council
The official sentencing guidelines for drink driving offences used by magistrates' courts.
Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)
CPS guidance on drink driving prosecution, including charging standards and evidential requirements.
GOV.UK - Drink Driving Penalties
Official government information on drink driving penalties, limits, and consequences.
DVLA - High Risk Offender Scheme
DVLA guidance on the High Risk Offender scheme and the medical examination process.
Need Specific Legal Advice?
These resources provide general information. For advice specific to your case, contact our specialist solicitors for a free consultation.
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